High Praise For Trialist McCarthy

Neil Baker says that trialist Jimmy McCarthy has got 'as much talent as anybody he's ever seen' whilst Dario says he's likely to play a part in the club's pre-season calendar.

First brought in on trial at the beginning of the month, McCarthy was spotted by chief scout Neil Baker whilst playing Sunday League football in Leek. Also contracted to Unibond side Warrington Town, the 25 year old has given up his day job to spend the summer attempting to earn a professional contract at Gresty Road.

Described as a pacey striker who can also play in midfield, McCarthy certainly seems in prime position to earn that contract. Baker, who has uncovered talents such as Luke Varney, Steve Jones and Tom Pope, believes he's got it in him to do it.

Bakes told Radio Stoke:

'I've seen a hell of a lot in him. He's got as much talent as anybody I've ever seen. You've got to take into consideration the standard of football is lower but the lad's got amazing ability.

Whether he's got the other ingredients to make it, we'll have to wait and see but I haven't seen many - if any - with the talent he's got.

'He's got great skills, he can beat people, he's got the tricks, he's got everything technically that you want in a footballer.

'Ability wise isn't a problem, he's just got to put everything together to become a professional footballer. He's got a great chance.'

Dario Gradi meanwhile says the club may take a chance on McCarthy and fully expects him to feature this summer for the club. He told crewealex.net:

'He is a gifted boy and has been at one or two clubs in the past without not quite making it. He has never survived to make the grade and we have to find out why that is because he certainly has ability.

'He has to work on his fitness and we will see where he is at when pre-season starts in early July. I am sure he will be here for most of the pre-season.

'Jimmy is one we would have to take a real chance on but we are a club that likes to take chances.'